We love healthy hair, but we also demand a healthy scalp. Everything starts from the source, and the source of healthy hair is a healthy scalp. But are there cases of scalp infections or scalp pimples after a hair transplant? There can be!
The hair transplant procedure is the solution everyone runs to in order to restore their hair and gain a dose of self-confidence. However, since the procedure involves taking the grafts and implanting them into the donor area, there is a possibility of pimples forming on the scalp after the procedure.
In this blog we explain what pimples on the scalp are, why they occur and how you can treat them for good!
The formation of pimples on the scalp after the procedure is common, but not dangerous and is not a serious side effect, but it can be uncomfortable and itchy for the patient. The pimple can be caused by various reasons, such as an infection, ingrown hairs, an allergic reaction to a medication, or excessive oil production.
Whatever the reason, it is important to cure these pimples and find a solution to prevent their formation in order to maintain a healthy scalp and thus healthy hair.
After hair transplantation, acne occurs for many reasons. Even if the instructions are followed after the procedure, some reactions and side effects cannot be controlled. As there are different reasons for the development of acne on the scalp, there are also different types of acne, namely folliculitis, acne, cysts, ingrown hairs and keloids.
Folliculitis: folliculitis is the most common type of pimples that appear on the scalp after hair transplantation. These pimples are caused by an infection of the hair follicles and turn into red-stained pimples.
Acne: Acne on the scalp looks similar to acne on the face, it is red and has a white head. This acne is mainly because of the excessive oil production on the scalp, which clogs the pores, causing acne.
Cysts: if you notice red, firm, round bumps on the scalp after hair transplantation, it is most likely a cyst. Cysts are the result of an accumulation of scalp oil and dead skin.
Ingrown hairs: ingrown hairs are known to occur in both women and men and cause pimples, itching and redness in the affected area. When hair does not grow toward the surface of the skin and outward, but curls downward and grows under the skin. This can happen after a hair transplant.
Keloids: Keloids are a type of temporary scarring associated with pimples or other bumps that develop after hair transplantation.
Pimples on the scalp can occur for many reasons, and acne can occur in the middle, back or front of the head. But there are definitely four main reasons for the appearance of pimples on the scalp:
After any procedure, certain instructions must be followed to avoid any post- procedure complications. And in hair transplantation, the most important and common post -procedure complication that a patient may face is the formation of pimples on the scalp. However, there are some tips that can protect the scalp from acne and help manage it.
Must follow the doctor’s advice: Following the doctor's instructions after the procedure plays an important role in smooth healing and minimizing side effects and complications that may occur due to lack of scalp care.
Keep your scalp clean and free of dirt: most of the reasons for the development of acne are dirt, deposits of dead skin, oil and dirt. By keeping your scalp clean, you will eliminate all causes of pimples and thus protect your scalp.
Avoid touching or scratching your scalp: We touch thousands of objects every day without really washing our hands thousands of times. Therefore, the likelihood of bacteria being transferred to our scalp and causing itching and a bacterial infection is quite high. When you feel the urge to scratch your scalp, use a cotton pad and gently move it where it’s itching.
Protect your scalp from direct sunlight: after hair transplantation, you cannot wear hats for a while, so the only way to protect your scalp from direct sunlight is to avoid morning outings. This is because sunlight and heat irritate the scalp, which leads to pimples.
As a rule, after hair transplantation, depending on the case, the doctor prescribes medications to facilitate the recovery period. These medications are intended to protect the scalp and prevent infection from developing. Nevertheless, acne formation can occur even if you take the medication due to other factors. If you notice that the pimples are very inflamed and constantly increasing, you should definitely seek professional help to get the right medication. Do's and Don'ts for
Dealing with the problem itself determines whether the problem is solved or whether it only gets worse! In case the pimples have already chosen your scalp as their temporary home, there is a list of things you must and must not do when treating acne on the scalp. Do’s for
Dealing with Scalp Acne
Don’ts for Dealing with Scalp Acne
If you want to control what appears on your skin, you have to control what goes inside of your body. As food, plays a major role in skin health, in general, and in the appearance of acne in particular.
For example, diets based on a high glycemic index, such as chocolate, ice cream, and other high-sugar foods, increase insulin levels, which affect the secretion of androgens, leading to higher sebum production and thus more pimples.
A balanced diet will help you keep your skin healthy and gradually reduce the acne on your skin and scalp.
Stress is one of the main reasons for the development of acne, as the body releases hormones such as cortisol and androgens during high stress. These hormones are directly related to sebum and oil production, and high stress levels mean higher oil production and therefore more acne. The same thing happens when the body doesn’t get enough sleep, the cortisol comes into play in a higher concentration than needed, which eventually leads to acne.
FAQ
Can I wash my hair immediately after hair transplantation?
No, you cannot wash your hair immediately after hair transplantation and should wait 48 hours until the first hair wash. However, the body can be washed, but the scalp must be kept dry.
Are scalp acne common in hair transplant procedures?
Yes, scalp acne after hair transplantation is quite common and not really dangerous. However, there are certain steps that must be followed to cure the acne and prevent further acne from developing.
How long does it take for scalp acne to go away?
Scalp acne can occur for many different reasons, but all types of acne take about 6 to 8 weeks to heal completely. This, of course, depends on the type of medication and how disciplined you are in using it.
Can I apply my normal hair products after transplantation? After hair transplantation, there are certain hair products that we provide at Hair Time Turkey that should be used after the hair transplant procedure. Later, after 6 months you should tell your doctor what kind of hair products you normally use, because some hair products may not be suitable for your scalp and cause itching and acne
Are there any long-term complications of post-transplant scalp acne?
In general, hair transplant procedures are safe and do not bring long-term complications. If acne is treated properly, there are no problems at all and the scalp is healthy and ready to produce healthy hair.
Taking care of your hair after a hair transplant is crucial for achieving the best results. Imme…
